

Best for beginner divers, 4-18m, boat entry, mild current.
Darwin Bay on the south coast of San Cristobal Island features a combination of reef, artificial reef, and wall topography. Suitable for beginners, the site reaches depths of 4 to 18 metres with an average of 10 metres. Access is by boat only, located 500 metres from the shore. Divers and snorkellers encounter California sea lions, which are very common, alongside wrasses and razor surgeonfish. Less frequently, visitors may spot king angelfish, blue-barred parrotfish, rock cod, pufferfish, scorpionfish, groupers, whiptail stingrays, barberfish, spotted eagle rays, jewel moray, and reef octopus. Conditions include mild currents and visibility ranging from 8 to 25 metres. Sea urchins are present as a hazard.
-0.88664, -89.61003
Focus on the calmest and shallowest areas located on the south side of the bay.
Get to the Interpretation Center north of Puerto Barquerizo Moreno, register at the admission desk, follow the paved path for 300 meters, and turn right at the fork toward the bay.
Recorded at this site
Depth
4-18m
Visibility
8-25m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
20-24°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
California sea lions and wrasses are very common. Other species include razor surgeonfish, king angelfish, blue-barred parrotfish, rock cod, pufferfish, scorpionfish, groupers, whiptail stingrays, barberfish, spotted eagle rays, jewel moray, and reef octopus.
Yes, Darwin Bay is suitable for beginners, offering a manageable average depth of 10 metres and mild currents.
The depth at Darwin Bay ranges from 4 to 18 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres.
No, access to this site requires a boat as it is located 500 metres from the shore.
Yes, Darwin Bay is suitable for both diving and snorkelling, with a snorkel rating of 4 out of 5.
Diving at Darwin Bay in Puerto Barquerizo Moreno requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Darwin Bay in Puerto Barquerizo Moreno. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Darwin Bay in Puerto Barquerizo Moreno. Water temperatures range from 20°C to 24°C.
Divers at Darwin Bay in Puerto Barquerizo Moreno should be aware of sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Darwin Bay in Puerto Barquerizo Moreno typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Darwin Bay in Puerto Barquerizo Moreno typically ranges from 8 metres to 25 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.